Surviving and thriving after childhood cancer
Community and transfusions support Izzy, diagnosed at just 3 years old
In a holiday season of thankfulness and joy, the Lam family of Plano recognizes the importance of celebrating and appreciating these feelings year-round.
The family has overcome serious health issues with the support of medical experts and local blood donors.
“Our daughter Izzy’s journey has been marked by challenges no child should have to face, and by a community whose generosity made all the difference,” said dad Adam Lam.
At just 3 years old, Izzy was diagnosed with Stage 2 Wilms tumor, a type of childhood cancer that develops in the kidneys. According to the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation, Wilms tumor is the most common type of kidney cancer in children, making up about 9 out of every 10 cases.
“After enduring intensive treatment, we hoped the hardest days were behind us,” Adam recalled, as young Izzy fought and overcame the disease.
Three years later, however, at the age of 6, Izzy was diagnosed again. The second diagnosis confirmed secondary Acute Myeloid Leukemia (sAML), an aggressive form of blood cancer that begins in the white blood cells produced in the body’s bone marrow. This type of leukemia can arise following chemotherapy or radiation for other cancers.
“Throughout both battles, Izzy faced countless neutropenic episodes that required urgent blood transfusions – red blood cells, platelets, whatever her body needed to keep fighting,” Adam said. “Each time, those lifesaving resources were there, ready and available, because of selfless donors.”
He added, “We never had to wonder if help would come. It already had.”
Through the National Donate Life Registry, a viable donor match was found in Germany for a bone marrow transplant.
“It was someone we may never meet, but who forever changed our daughter’s life. And, with the incredible support of Carter BloodCare, that gift was delivered and made possible,” Adam said.
In June 2026, the Lams celebrated two years post-transplant. Proud dad Adam described daughter Izzy as a vibrant and joyful 8-year-old now, living a life they once feared might not be possible.
“We are endlessly grateful to the donors and organizations who made her recovery possible. Their generosity gave our daughter a future,” Adam said. “In honor of that, we now donate blood regularly. We know firsthand that behind every donation is a family hoping for more time, more memories, and another chance.”
Read more
Transfusions are vital medicine against childhood leukemia
Platelets, family and faith support young Lincoln’s fight against cancer
Liam’s fight against cancer proves warriors come in all sizes and ages
You can make a positive difference for a patient in need. Please donate this week at your nearest Carter BloodCare mobile blood drive or donor center. To thank you when you lend an arm to help others, you’ll receive a Donor Appreciation Gift.
Plus, if you’ve ever received a transfusion, your patient experience can motivate others to donate to save more lives. We’d love for you to Tell Us Your Story.